Ayrshire and the Isle of Arran

Ayrshire is a popular place for fans of two things: golf and Robert Burns. Ayrshire was the host of the first Open Championship in 1860 and the area is now littered with many quality courses. Scotland’s most famous poet was born in the village of Alloway, now home to the Robert Burns Birthplace Museum, and lived in the surrounding area for most of his life. Many Burns-related sights can be visited in the region by following various ‘Robert Burns Heritage Trails’.

Away from Burns-mania, the coast of Ayrshire is a pleasant place to visit in its own right, with some appealing resort towns, interesting Viking history and the resplendent Culzean Castle, which sits in a stunning location on a cliff edge, looking out over the Firth of Clyde.

For many, the Isle of Arran, the most southerly of Scotland’s islands, is the real draw to this area. Situated just off the coast of North Ayrshire, Arran is often referred to as ‘Scotland in minature’ due to its area of rugged highlands in the north, milder and flatter terrain in the south, and some beautiful stretches of coastline. Arran is a great place for walking and cycling and offers something for all levels. It is also home to some popular seaside resorts and some great pubs and restaurants.